JC was born on September 28, 1947, in Berryville, Arkansas, to the late Lola Mae and Richard Beaver. He spent his life doing the work he loved—farming. He started at a young age, working alongside his father and helping with milking, fieldwork, and general farm chores. He was very active in 4-H, winning multiple awards and trophies, including a trip to Washington, D.C.
He graduated from Pea Ridge High School along with 25 classmates. He spent 75 years on the family farm in Pea Ridge, operating a Grade A dairy and managing a beef herd. He served on several agriculture-related boards and committees, including the Farm Bureau Board of Directors. He was a voting delegate for Associated Milk Producers and served as secretary on the Board of Directors for Arkansas Dairy Cooperative.
At the time of his death, he was the longest-serving board member of the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency in Fayetteville, having served for more than 30 years. It was also his honor to serve as Benton County Justice of the Peace in 1993 and 1994.
JC was an uncomplicated man who enjoyed the simple things in life—a good meal, a good day at the sale barn, a field full of newly baled hay, and a good visit with old friends. He loved his life and worked long days that turned into years, never feeling as though it was work.
He is survived by his wife, Donna; stepdaughter Lisa Bridgers (Chad) of Fayetteville; daughter Teresa Bush (Darrel) of Lowell; stepdaughter Michelle Larson of Fayetteville; son Jerry Beaver (Jamie) of Rogers; and his brother, Randy Beaver, of Pea Ridge, as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
He will be missed by his many friends and acquaintances and will remain treasured forever in our memories.
